STRONG, STEADY LEADERSHIP

By Kelly Cole

For the past year, Joseph Foy, PhD, has served as Alverno’s interim president, leading with purpose, thoughtfulness and above all, humility.

Foy was named vice president for Academic Affairs in the spring of 2020, beginning his appointment just weeks after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the College to rethink how it could safely deliver its curriculum in the engaged, attentive manner that is one of the hallmarks of an Alverno education. Challenging as those first few months were, Foy navigated the upheaval with principled leadership and careful consideration, resolving to meet the needs of students and faculty alike.

He also led the transition back to in-person learning, balancing the precautions necessary to ensure everyone’s safety with the need to reintroduce a sense of community.

It was because of his steadfast leadership through these unimaginable challenges that he was asked to serve as interim president while a national search to identify Alverno’s ninth president was conducted. Now, as he prepares to begin his appointment as the 13th president of Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill., Foy leaves a legacy of kindness, collaboration and dedicated service.